Jordan Guide
Amman
Consistently overlooked and underrated by travellers to the Middle East, the Jordanian capital AMMAN stands in marked contrast to its raucous neighbours, with none of the grand history of Damascus, not a whiff of Jerusalem's tension and just a tiny fraction of Cairo's monuments. It's a civilized, genial city with unexpected charm, that is bathed in a new spirit of dynamism: investment is pouring in, new buildings are going up, neighbourhoods are being rejuvenated and the city is humming with cafés, galleries and commerce. If you're dreaming of medieval mosques, gloomy spice bazaars and fading romance, go elsewhere; if you want a handle on how a young, buzzy Arab capital is making its way in the world, Amman is for you.
Amman is a city of hills, and any map of the place can only give half the story. Although distances may look small on paper, the reality is that traffic and people are funnelled along streets often laid on valley-beds or clinging to the side of steep hills: to reach any destinations above Downtown you'll generally have to zigzag up sharp gradients.
Highlights
1 Roman Theatre Impressive ancient arena at the heart of the capital.
2 Souk Sukkr Immerse yourself in the bustle of Amman's market streets.
3 Jordan Museum The most comprehensive overview of Jordan's archeological heritage.
4 Umayyad Palace Restored eighth-century governor's residence that dominates Amman's hilltop citadel.
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